Tornado Warning Issued for Rapides and Avoyelles Parishes in Central Louisiana
The National Weather Service has issued an immediate Tornado Warning for parts of Rapides and Avoyelles Parishes until 9:45 PM CST following radar-indicated rotation.
Alert Details
The National Weather Service in Lake Charles has issued a Tornado Warning for central Louisiana. The alert was issued at 8:57 PM CST and remains in effect until 9:45 PM CST. This is an immediate threat based on radar-indicated rotation within a severe thunderstorm.
Affected Areas
The warning covers the following regions in central Louisiana:
- Central Rapides Parish
- Northwestern Avoyelles Parish
Specific locations in the path of this storm include:
- Alexandria and Alexandria International Airport
- Pineville, Ball, Kingsville, and Paradise
- Tioga, Kolin, Timber Trails, and Libuse
- Esler Regional Airport, Gardner, and Woodworth
- Interstate 49 between mile markers 68 and 94
What You Should Do
TAKE COVER NOW! Residents in the affected area should move immediately to an interior room on the lowest floor of a sturdy building. Stay away from windows.
If you are outdoors, in a mobile home, or in a vehicle, move to the closest substantial shelter immediately to protect yourself from flying debris. Mobile homes are at high risk of being damaged or destroyed.
Expected Conditions
At 8:57 PM CST, a severe thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located near Elmer (8 miles east of Hineston), moving northeast at 50 mph.
- Hazard: Tornado and flying debris.
- Source: Radar-indicated rotation.
- Impact: Flying debris will be dangerous to those without shelter. Expect damage to roofs, windows, and vehicles. Tree damage is likely.
Timeline
- Issued: 8:57 PM CST, February 14
- Effective Period: Immediate
- Expiration: 9:45 PM CST, February 14
Source: NOAA Official Notice